Las Vegas Murder Defense Attorney

Murder Charges & Penalties

The legal definition of murder is "the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought." This is broken down into first degree and second degree murder. First degree murder has occurred if you deliberately kill someone, for example by shooting or stabbing. It can also consist of causing a death as a result of the intentional commission of another crime, such as rape or arson. Second degree murder relates to deaths caused unintentionally but in circumstances where the actions taken could be predicted to end in death. Examples of this include playing Russian Roulette or firing a weapon toward a group of people.

First degree murder is punishable by the death penalty. Short of that, imprisonment up to a life sentence can be imposed, with or without the possibility of parole. Second degree murder can result in 25 years to life in prison, with the possibility of parole after 10 years. Additional time may be ordered for aggravating circumstances. Attempted murder is also a felony and can lead to up to 20 years in prison. It is vital you retain a high quality Las Vegas criminal defense lawyer to defend you against such consequences.

Defending Your Rights

At Okabe & Haushalter, we appreciate that each case is unique and approach your defense based on the specific circumstances involved. We will conduct our own investigation in seeking information or evidence that may be used to your benefit. Defenses may include self-defense, lack of evidence or police error. A death caused when acting in self-defense does not constitute murder if the force used was necessary and reasonable in light of the danger present. If this can be proven, charges may be dropped. Otherwise, we may find points that invalidate the prosecution's evidence. Without this, a conviction is much less likely, as the prosecution bears the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

Charged with murder? Contact a Las Vegas murder defense lawyer today!

When you are looking to defend your future against the possibility of conviction, you need to be confident that you have a heavyweight in your corner that has more than just a shallow understanding of the law. At our firm, you can be confident knowing that we have been proven our mettle time and time again. In fact, this extensive experience in murder cases has led to our very own Attorney Mark Haushalter to be chosen as a legal commentator for CNN on the controversial Casey Anthony case. We are not unproven, inexperienced lawyers. We know our way around the courtroom and have proven this on a national level – so don't wait, consult with our legal team today.

Contact a Las Vegas murder defense attorney for legal representation if you are in the serious situation of facing murder charges.